Omani industrial exports to Saudi Arabia surge to RO 1.618 billion
MUSCAT: Omani industrial exports rose by 8.6 per cent year-on-year during the first quarter of 2025, reaching RO 1.618 billion, up from RO 1.49 billion in the same period of 2024. According to data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) in May, the growth reflects the Sultanate of Oman's strengthening industrial footprint in regional markets, particularly Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia saw a 28.3 per cent increase in imports of Omani industrial goods, reaching RO 259 million—highlighting the deepening economic ties and rising demand for Omani products in the Kingdom.
Nasra bint Sultan al Habsi, Director General of Trade at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, attributed the growth to the efforts of the Economy, Trade and Industry Committee under the Omani-Saudi Coordination Council. "This committee has focused on easing trade barriers, harmonising customs procedures, enhancing border transit, and digitally linking the two countries' trade systems," she explained.
A key development has been the use of the Rub' al-Khali border crossing, now a vital commercial artery facilitating the smooth flow of goods and services between the two nations.
The committee is also advancing cooperation in areas such as intellectual property, e-commerce, competition, and export development. Nasra noted that Saudi Arabia is now Oman's second-largest trading partner within the Gulf region. She emphasised Oman's openness to increased Saudi investment, especially in special economic and free zones that offer state-of-the-art infrastructure and attractive incentives—aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and Saudi Vision 2030.
Mazen bin Humaid al Siyabi, Assistant Director General at the Directorate General of Industry, noted that there has been marked progress in industrial cooperation between the two countries, with joint meetings, workshops, and investor engagements intensifying over the past year.
He said that 'priority sectors such as advanced manufacturing, technology, and supply chains have seen notable growth in collaboration, laying the groundwork for industrial integration and shared innovation.'
The Ministry's focus on diversifying markets, boosting productivity, and enhancing competitiveness is bearing fruit, he added, positioning Oman's industrial sector as a key driver of economic diversification. — ONA
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